HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Chamber Foundation today hosted a celebratory press conference in the Main Capitol Rotunda to honor the inaugural recipients of the “Greatest Places to Intern in PA” awards. This recognition celebrates dozens of employers across the Commonwealth that are delivering exceptional internship experiences and preparing students for in-demand careers in Pennsylvania.
The event brought together state officials, business leaders, and student interns to spotlight the transformative power of internships and issue a call to action: for more employers across Pennsylvania – across all sizes and industry sectors – to rise to the challenge of launching or expanding their own internship programs and provide students with the skills needed to succeed in the workforce.
“As we’ve outlined in the Keystone Initiative – our long-term economic blueprint to make Pennsylvania the most competitive state in the nation – internships are one of the most effective ways employers can equip students with the real-world skills they need after graduation,” PA Chamber Foundation President Luke Bernstein said. “These experiences help young people build confidence, gain industry knowledge, and make meaningful connections. Today, we’re here to honor the companies that are prioritizing internships and providing high-quality learning experiences that prepare students for a bright future—right here in Pennsylvania.”
The Office of Pennsylvania Auditor General Tim DeFoor was one of 50 employers recognized for its exceptional internship program.
“Our student interns are the future workforce for Pennsylvania,” said Auditor General Tim DeFoor. “Their young talent and knowledge have grown and transformed our department. We are honored to be recognized by the Pennsylvania Chamber Foundation and proud to have these intelligent young individuals impacting their communities.”
Holly Kosek, Senior Human Resources Manager for Talent Acquisition at Lutron Electronics – a “Greatest Place to Intern in PA” award winner – highlighted the company’s commitment to meaningful intern experiences.
“Each year, Lutron welcomes exceptional students into our Intern & Co-Op Program, where they tackle meaningful, high-impact projects that align with our business goals. They apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges, gain valuable feedback, and present their achievements to company leaders. We are honored by this recognition and excited to continue the program’s impact.”
Gabrielle Trucco, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Office of Administration, shared a proclamation from Gov. Josh Shapiro recognizing July 31, 2025, as “Pennsylvania Intern Day” and voiced the administration’s support of internships for the vital role they play in shaping the future of Pennsylvania’s workforce and communities.
“The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is proud to stand alongside these employers and be recognized as one of 2025’s Greatest Places to Intern in Pennsylvania,” Trucco said. “The Shapiro Administration has expanded internships—as well as apprenticeships and fellowships—so more Pennsylvanians can learn about career opportunities in public service and gain valuable experience and skills to carry them forward on their chosen path. These programs represent a wise investment in our present and future.”
Miranda Nace, a Penn State University student who joined the PA Chamber as a Government Affairs Intern this summer, spoke to how her experience has helped her feel more inspired, prepared, and confident as she enters her senior year. Nace encouraged employers and students to partner on engaging in these mutually beneficial opportunities.
“If we want to keep young talent in Pennsylvania and stay competitive with other states, we need more opportunities like this,” she said. “We need to show students that their future doesn’t have to be somewhere else; it can start right here in our Commonwealth.”
The PA Chamber Foundation offers tools and resources to help businesses of all sizes create meaningful internship opportunities. More information is available on the Foundation section of our website at www.pachamber.org.
To view a recording of the “Greatest Places to Intern” press conference, click here.
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The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state’s largest broad-based business association, with its statewide membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.